National coach Nova Widianto says the proposed 15-point system may initially benefit European players due to its fast-paced nature.

THE proposed 15-point scoring system in badminton could give European players an early advantage, according to national mixed doubles coach Nova Widianto.

He believes the shorter format will create extremely fast-paced matches requiring intense focus from the first point.

“I think the 15-point format makes the game too fast,” said Widianto after a training session. “If you look at how European players play and train, it really suits this system.”

The former world champion acknowledged that Asian players are adaptable to any format changes.

He stressed that the key to success under the new system would be unwavering concentration due to the reduced margin for error.

“In Asia, we are already used to various systems and can adapt,” he added. “But in my view, in the early phase European players may have the advantage.”

Meanwhile, current mixed doubles world champion Toh Ee Wei stated she is ready to accept any scoring format change.

She emphasised that players have a duty to abide by the decisions of the world governing body.

“I don’t want to comment much on the proposed change,” said Toh. “Whatever points they decide on, we as players have to accept and adapt.”

Badminton Association of Malaysia secretary-general Datuk Kenny Goh said the national body has yet to decide its stance on the proposed change.

He confirmed a meeting will be held soon with players and coaches to discuss the proposal.

The outcome of these discussions will form Malaysia’s vote at the BWF Annual General Meeting scheduled for April 25 in Denmark.

The BWF Council agreed to propose the 15-point system as the official scoring format yesterday.

The governing body stated it offers the best balance of match excitement, competitive fairness and player welfare.

The system has been tested in several national and Grade 3 tournaments, including the 2025 World Junior Championships.

 The Sun Malaysia